News release

The Northwest Territories RCMP investigating videos featuring firearms

August 15, 2025 - Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
From: Northwest Territories RCMP

Content

The Northwest Territories RCMP is investigating Instagram videos that have been circulated in which potential unlawful firearms activity is featured.

On Monday, August 11th, the Northwest Territories RCMP was made aware of the Instagram account and its content. The account features videos filmed near or in Yellowknife. In them, a group of individuals can be seen displaying various handguns and long guns. In one video, the individuals can be seen discharging firearms in a remote area.

The RCMP Territorial Crime Reduction Unit, with support from Yellowknife RCMP General Investigation Section, have taken carriage of this investigation.

Due to the high visibility of these videos on social media and concerns expressed by residents, the Northwest Territories RCMP is making every effort to conduct a thorough investigation. Multiple steps need to be taken, including identifying all individuals involved.

RCMP investigators continue to make progress and the filmmaker behind the videos has been very cooperative.

The investigation into this matter is ongoing. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

Quotes

“Whether or not the intention of these individuals was to glorify gang culture in Yellowknife, these videos have been alarming for the entire community, including various racialized community groups. This investigation has been prioritized, and enforcement action will be pursued if charges are warranted.”

“Yellowknife is a diverse and accepting community, and the actions of a few should in no way be a reflection on the larger community. This has already generated some negativity through various social media platforms. Any perceived threats or acts of violence towards any groups will not be tolerated and I encourage those impacted to contact their local RCMP. It is important to remember that this not a reflection on the South Asian community, or any other racialized groups, as they have been unified in their swift condemnation of this incident.”

Chief Superintendent Dyson Smith, Commanding Officer for the Northwest Territories RCMP

Contacts